PostNL Seeks State Compensation Amid Postal Law Delays

PostNL has applied for state compensation for 2027, citing political delays in postal law reform that have rendered a planned transition to slower mail delivery unworkable. Chief Executive Pim Berendsen stated that the postponement of changes to the Postal Act means the shift to a standard delivery window of three business days by 2027 is no longer feasible, necessitating net cost compensation during the transitional years.

Despite these regulatory hurdles, the company confirmed its 2026 outlook and expects free cash flow of approximately zero. PostNL reported third-quarter revenue of €768 million, with e-commerce revenue rising to €478 million.

However, the company experienced a nearly 32% drop in international volumes, primarily from Asian webshops. This decline follows the implementation of new customs rules on July 1.